DUBAI — The world’s leading security, safety and fire protection experts will gather in Dubai for the 2020 edition of Intersec, the world’s leading trade fair for security, safety and fire production, starting today (Jan. 19) to probe the latest technology solutions transforming the global security industry.

The three-day event gathers more than 1,100 exhibitors for 50-plus countries, including the majority of the world’s top 50 security manufacturers will be displaying the latest security solutions across the three days when the show kicks off.

While the exhibition will be a window to disruptive technology shaping the international security sector, Intersec’s three-pronged conference series will bring together change-makers from more than 50 countries, including representatives from 35 governments, trade associations and non-profit organizations to shape the future landscape of the global industry.

Anticipation is also building for the all-new Intersec Arena, a dedicated tech center for excellence at the show, which will focus on solving digital security challenges through innovation and education.

Andreas Rex, Show Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, Intersec organizers, stressed the Arena has been introduced to assist industry professionals in addressing today’s security challenges, which go well beyond public sector providers.

“Businesses today operate in a dynamic threat landscape; security professionals are required to work ahead of the curve, to be predictive and not reactive. The Arena provides a space for industry experts, tech insiders, and security practitioners to share their approaches to achieving resilient, responsive and secure operations,” said Rex.

“We are in a time of unparalleled change – the future of cities and customer interactions are changing rapidly in line with developments in new technology. As organizations rush to embrace digital transformation, security professionals have questions that they would like to have answered."

“The key discussion areas within the Arena program have been designed to engage with this dialogue. Attendees will gain invaluable insights into new technologies, how they may be implemented successfully and witness first-hand the suggested solutions to mitigate cross-sector industry-specific challenges,” he added.

The Arena has attracted one of the most powerful speaker line-ups seen in the region with industry thought leaders from across the Middle East, Europe and the USA, spanning multiple sectors, from hydrocarbon, banking and finance, municipal affairs, civil defense, customs and healthcare. Highlights will include police and customs representatives from Abu Dhabi and Dubai sharing insights into challenges in digital transformation, while experts from across the GCC will discuss AI implementation in security.

Another key highlight will be the launch of the Security Professionals Association (SPA), a group that fosters technological innovation and operational excellence. This project has been developed by the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) and industry stakeholders to support global best practice and innovation in the security industry.

“It is with great pride that we announce the launch of the first security professional association in the region that will offer excellent ways to stay current on the best security practices. SPA for SIRA will open strong networking opportunities between security professionals and organizations and will offer an environment where learning is given the utmost importance to motivate professionals to continue to pursue their goals,” said Eng. Khalid Al Hammadi, Chairman of SPA.

“Our goal is for SPA for SIRA to be an organization that embodies professional standards that far exceed international benchmarks.”

The conference series also includes the three-day Future Security Summit, where speakers and delegates will explore disruptive technologies, examine security loopholes in business ecosystems and the means of integrating digital and physical security to address critical security threats.

Summit highlights will include an exclusive look at what’s in store for the security industry at Expo Dubai 2020, the technology solutions for future proofing security in smart cities, aviation industry focus sessions and case study insights into how AI solutions can improve corporate security.

The two-day Intersec Fire Conference (Jan. 19 and 20) will put advanced fire safety technologies under the spotlight, including the evolution of regulatory requirements, and standards. The conference will feature case studies, panel discussions and keynote presentations by regulators, fire chiefs, and key solution providers including Lt. Gen. Yousef Al Ansari, the former head of the Kuwait Fire Service Directorate and Honorary board Member of the Kuwait Fire Protection Association.

Ahead of his address on regional best practices in fire protection, Lt. Gen Al Ansari said he will unveil a comparison between theories of community risk assessment and risk reduction versus practical applications in real incident implementation.

Lt. Gen. Al Ansari said advanced technology implementation is high on Kuwait’s fire protection agenda. “Kuwait is always keen on attracting modern technology in all fields, especially in the area of safety to protect lives and property,” he noted.

Intersec 2020 is seen as a watershed event in the evolution of the security industry. “The conventional security areas are being massively disrupted by technology, but security is now increasingly touching on the everyday lives of people – with cyber security key to operating in a safe, secure environment for all,” added Messe Frankfurt Middle East’s Rex. — SG